Willem Röntgen and the Discovery of X-rays

• Willem Röntgen: Discovered X-ray technology in 1895.

• Characteristics of X-rays:

  • High energy level.

  • Travels at the speed of light.

  • Very short wavelength, enabling penetration of solid objects.

• First X-ray Image: Captured of Röntgen’s wife's hand featuring her wedding ring.

• Initial Applications: Utilized in healthcare for locating bullets in soldiers during warfare.

Evolution of Diagnostic Imaging

• Current State of Radiology:

  • Widely used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

  • Types of diagnostic imaging available today:

    • X-rays

    • Mammography

    • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

    • Nuclear medicine

    • Ultrasound

Definition and Purpose of Diagnostic Imaging

• Diagnostic Imaging: Involves taking images of a patient's body parts or organs to aid in diagnoses.

Types of Radiology Tests

• Use of Contrast:

  • Enhances clarity of images of organs and their functions.

  • Contrast media can be administered orally, rectally, or via injection.

  • Clarifies internal structures during imaging.

Invasive vs Non-Invasive Procedures

• Invasive Tests:

  • Require insertion of instruments (e.g., catheter).

  • Use sterile techniques to prevent infection.

  • Example: Angiograph – evaluates blood vessels.

• Non-Invasive Tests:

  • No instruments or skin penetration (e.g., traditional X-ray).

  • Commonly performed on patients without need for surgical procedures.

Role of Medical Assistants in Radiology

• Pre-procedure Care:

  • Schedule appointments and instruct patients.

  • Collect medication histories (some meds can interfere with procedures).

  • Confirm female patients are not pregnant due to radiation risks.

• During the Procedure:

  • Maintain patient stillness; may require breath-holding for clearer images.

• Post-procedure Care:

  • Assist patients post-surgery and document completion.

  • Ensure insurance verification is performed if applicable.

Film Storage and Handling

• Digital storage is common today, although some facilities still use X-ray film.

• Must keep exposed films at optimal temperatures (50-70°F).

• Avoid stacking packages of films to prevent pressure marks.

Potential Reactions to Contrast Substances

• Possible allergic reactions to iodine in contrast media:

  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, dizziness, headaches.

• In case of uncertainty regarding allergies:

  • Follow emergency protocols with crash carts available.

Key Imaging Procedures Discussed

• Fluoroscopy:

  • Allows real-time viewing of internal organs and movement of contrast through systems.

• Hysterosalpingography:

  • Assesses female reproductive organs, particularly when faced with infertility issues.

• Angiography:

  • Visualizes blood vessels; detects blockages.

• Arthrography:

  • Visualizes joint structures using contrast while the joint is in motion.

• Barium Enema/Swallow:

  • Barium Enema: Administers barium via the rectum for colon imaging.

  • Barium Swallow: Similar procedure assessing the upper GI system.

• Cholangiography:

  • Focuses on the gallbladder and bile ducts through administered contrast.

• CT Scans:

  • Use specialized X-ray equipment for imaging all body structures.

• MRI:

  • Utilizes magnets and radio signals for imaging without X-ray exposure.

  • Essential pre-screening for metallic implants.

• Mammography:

  • Assesses breast tissue; may lead to further procedures like biopsy if abnormalities are found.

• Myelography:

  • Detects spinal cord issues through specialized imaging using contrast.

Nuclear Medicine Procedures

• Radioisotope Administration:

  • Evaluates major organs and conditions (e.g., functional abnormalities).

  • Common Types:

    • SPECT: Evaluates brain damage from strokes.

    • PET: Diagnoses brain conditions such as epilepsy and Parkinson's.

    • MUGA: Evaluates heart function.

Safety in Radiological Procedures

• Radiation Safety Precautions:

  • Staff must wear dosimeters to measure radiation exposure.

  • Equipment must be maintained and checked for leaks.

  • Compliance with guidelines to protect pregnant patients and minimize exposure.

Conclusion on Imaging Advancement

• Advancements in digital imaging allow for rapid access of images and enhanced care.

• DICOM: Digital Imaging and Communication in Medicine, standardizing medical images.